The large wildfire that ignited Wednesday afternoon in the resort town of Oropos, Eastern Attica, has begun to ease as of Thursday, July 9, though firefighting forces continue to wage an intense battle to bring the blaze fully under control.
Fire crews continue to battle isolated hotspots and flare-ups, particularly in rugged mountainous regions where dense stands of virgin pine forest and challenging terrain are making containment efforts difficult.
A total of 20 aircraft were deployed to the scene, while ground forces fought the flames through the night in a sustained effort to bring the situation under control. The operation involves 210 firefighters, 11 specialized forest fire units, and 51 firefighting vehicles.
Numerous volunteers and volunteer-operated vehicles are also supporting the operation, alongside water tankers and heavy machinery provided by the Greek National Defence General Staff and the Region of Attica.
Since 6 a.m. Thursday, ten aircraft have resumed aerial water drops to assist ground crews.
The weakening of winds has been a key factor in the improved conditions, contributing significantly to the fire’s partial containment. However, authorities stress that a full resolution is still some way off.
Firefighting forces have been reinforced and are expected to continue their efforts through the night, aiming to capitalize on the current momentum and improve control by dawn.
Regarding the nearby migrant facility in Malakasa, authorities have taken all necessary precautionary and preparatory measures for a potential evacuation.
At this stage, however, there is no immediate threat to the residents, and evacuation has not been deemed necessary. Emergency plans remain in place should the situation change.